Question: Have you ever wondered about a place named “song of two waters?” That is Waiatarua. This small settlement sits high in the Waitākere Ranges. It offers stunning views and a rich history.
Waiatarua is more than just a place. It is a name that echoes through time. The name possibly refers to the views of both the wild west coast and the harbours. These are the Manukau and Waitemata harbours.
Long ago, this land was the home of Te Kawerau ā Maki. This iwi traces its roots back to Auckland’s earliest people. The name Waiatarua originally described the upper parts of Big Muddy Creek and Nihotupu Stream.
Early European settlers used Waiatarua and Nihotupu interchangeably. But Frederick Judson, a Scenic Drive resident, helped make Waiatarua the popular name. Over time, the name Waiatarua came to cover a larger area.
Imagine holidaymakers traveling by coach from Glen Eden. They would stay at the Waiatarua guest house. Large kauri trees were milled at Mander and Bradley’s Mill. This mill was near the Upper Nihotupu reservoir.
Today, Waiatarua is a thriving community. In June 2024, its population was estimated at 2,360. The community has a fire station, a hall, a play centre, a library, a cafe, and a hotel.
Close by, the Arataki Visitor Centre offers insights into local flora, fauna, and geology. It is also the starting point for scenic walking trails. These trails lead to the Upper and Lower Nihotupu water reservoirs. They connect to the wider Waitakere Regional Park.
One notable place was Burgin Field. It stands on the site of the old Girl Guide stronghold, Otimai. Burgin Field is named after Mona Burgin. She was a key figure in the Girl Guiding movement in New Zealand.
Another memory of Waiatarua recalls Parkinson’s House. This house was rented for school holidays in the 1930s. A track led through the bush to a swimming pool made of cement and marble slabs. The Piha bus would drop off fresh meat and bread at the Waiatarua Store.
Waiatarua also has a radio and television mast. This mast transmits Freeview UHF and Digital Audio Broadcasting.
Waiatarua offers something special. It is a place where history and nature meet. It is a place where you can hear the song of two waters. It is a place where memories are made.